Hypogonadism refers to a condition in which the hormone secretion from the sex glands or gonads is inadequate. The reproductive glands include the testes in males and ovaries in females. Testosterone is the major secretory product of the testes. Male hypogonadism is decreased production of testosterone and germ cells due to a testicular disorder. (See References 3) Defective hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis producing little or no sexual characteristics hormones such as estrogen causes female hypogonadism. (See References 2) In girls, hypogonadism inhibits the onset of puberty with no breast development and delays the menstrual periods. In boys, hypogonadism slows the manifestation of early sexual characteristics such as muscle and beard development and height. (See References 3)
Hormone Replacement
Male hormone supplements, particularly testosterone replacement therapy, or TRT, can help those men with hypogonadism caused by testicular failure. Men can improve in sexual function, mood and muscle strength and body composition with TRT. It also reduces the amount of bone loss and therefore the likelihood of osteoporosis and bone fractures. Furthermore, TRT will restore libido, erectile capability, vitality and well-being. Low-sperm production also responds to hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, with fertility drugs, thereby stimulating sperm production and restoring male fertility. The testicles need pituitary hormones to be stimulated to produce germ cells or sperm. (See References 1)
Surgical Care
It is still questionable about the acceptability of resection of gonadal tissue. Surgical removal of gonadal tissue presents greater risk of consequential injury to the patient. This is because the excision of gonadal tissue is a subset of ongoing process rather than a distinct event. So it is only justified when it benefits the patient who receives the experimental treatment. In female, gonadal tissue is removed with karyotypes bearing a Y chromosome. Men with defective gonads undergo prosthetic replacement followed by orchiectomy, or medical castration. (See References 4)
Assisted Reproduction
Previously, people with infertility had few options as there was a lack of information regarding the causes of infertility and how to recover it. Today, persons diagnosed with primary hypogonadism are being able to recover their fertility by employing assisted reproduction technology methods. Although not completely effective, assisted reproduction methods such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection maximize the chances of conceiving quickly. (See References 1)
